Camera offers new perspective, career goal, Loves math, wants to work in medicine with children, Students present artistic twist on being nice, New initiative aims to connect students with careers & schools with employers, District buildings promote mental health awareness, An MSU grads painful reflection: violence has turned my former green-and-white home red, Patient parapro + purposeful play = preschool progress, Civic-minded scholars delve into study of the Constitution, Student-organized college Q&A panel earns high marks. Godwin Heights    Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. Kelloggsville    Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Welcome Greetings from Farmington Public Schools! In the coming months, I look forward to listening and learning in our Kentwood community as I engage with parents, students, teachers, and staff in a range of forums. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. The Capturing Kids Hearts program that guides staff members and teachers in their work with our students will continue in the year ahead. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. In the coming month, we will establish a direction that maintains this tradition and identifies our next steps.. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. This is true for students, staff, and especially for leaders. "Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always . Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. Mar. Kentwood Public Schools, together with parents and the community will educate all students in a safe, secure environment. The Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education Aug. 9 approved two new hires to the central office team Executive Director of Elementary Education Jason Lawson and Executive Director of Student Services Veronica Lake. East Grand Rapids    As a district, in partnership with our community, we will continue to provide an education of excellence to every Kentwood student. Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. Thirty-three percent of Kentwood students are Black, 28% are white, 15% Hispanic/Latino, 15% Asian and 7% identify as being of two or more races, according to state data. School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. 113 were here. Search Form Quick Search: Search. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. His salary will reopen to be determined by mutual agreement with the board in his third year. May 7, 2021 Kentwood In a unanimous vote, the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has selected Kevin Polston to serve as its next superintendent. Private Junior High School. Polstons base salary will increase to $211,500 in the second year of his contract. Kentwood Public Schools is proud to announce the inaugural year of Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). Excellence and equity: Kentwood Public Schools is a global district with a commitment to excellence and equity in all that we do. We are focused on ensuring that every student has an opportunity to develop academically and socially in a positive educational environment. He will receive a longevity stipend of $12,860 for each year of the contract. KENTWOOD, MI -- After 33 years of service to Kentwood Public Schools, Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced Wednesday, Nov. 11 that he will retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year.. Byron Center   I am so excited to join our diverse global Kentwood community. It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. Since the pandemic hit in March 2020, seven area districts had superintendents announce they are retiring, including Holland, Kentwood, Jenison, West Ottawa, Lowell, and the Kent and Ottawa ISDs. You will now have one password for multiple accounts. Polston, who is currently the superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, has been an educator for almost two decades. Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. Compensation will be commensurate with experience of the successful candidate and requirements of the position. We will continue to consistently emphasize: 1. Comstock Park    Check out the calendar, talk with peers, give us a "like" or a follow on Facebook and more. 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. The average Kentwood Public Schools daily wage ranges from approximately $89.83 per day for Academic Interventionist to $92.20 per day for Teacher. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation, https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword, At least 8 characters in length CANNOT repeat same character more than twice in a row, CANNOT use your previous password as your new password. The window for school of choice applications opens April 10th and you can apply by going to school of choice under the student enrollment at the top of this page. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. The Board will offer a comprehensive, multi-year contract. Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. Kelloggsville    As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Grandville    Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. Public Schools in Kentwood Public Schools School District have an average math proficiency score of 34% (versus the . KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is preparing to retire. First Name: Our candidate pool was exceptionally strong and our internal leadership team is outstanding, said board president Mimi Madden. James is also serving as Trustee on the Board of Education for Kentwood Public Schools. 9 Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, KDL Wyoming Branch, 7 p.m. Mar.13: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Mar.20: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. In addition, and most importantly, our students' positive self concepts and winning attitudes will make you glad to call Kentwood your home! Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at https://masb.myrevelus.com/. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. The board will begin contract. Office of the Superintendent. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. The Board of Education, and the Michigan Association of School Boards, which is assisting the search, announced today, April 20, that the Kentwood Public Schools superintendent posting closed on April 6, with considerable interest and 31 applicants, and Board of Education has selected the six candidates for first-round interviews. Sparta    The field with [emailprotected] can be in the following formats. Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. This district's average testing ranking is 7/10, which is in the top 50% of public schools in Michigan. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. The Kent ISD School Board recently announced the appointment of Sylvia James to fill the opening on the board created when Bill Joseph retired. Scheduled to be interviewed on Wednesday, April 28, are Tracy Reed, chief academic officer at Fort Wayne (Indiana) Community Schools (at 6 p.m.); Marcus Davenport, Ph.D., superintendent of Beecher Community Schools (7 p.m.), and Kevin Polston, Ed.S., superintendent, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools (8 p.m.). He will earn a starting salary of $204,500 when he takes the reins on July 1. I look forward to listening and learning from each of you in the weeks and months ahead to continue the education of excellence that is expected in Kentwood Public Schools. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). Instead of 11111, use your employee ID#. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. Join to connect Kentwood Public Schools. Parents allow us to work with their most precious gift - and we are thankful for their confidence and support. IMPORTANT: If you answer yes to any of the questions below, please contact your immediate supervisor for further direction. 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. She was one of the original SNN staff writers, helping launch the site in 2013 and enjoys fulfilling the mission of sharing the stories of public education. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. KENTWOOD, Mich. Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) will be tightening security at Thursday's East Kentwood High School graduation. Second round interviews/First Opportunity for Board Selection of Superintendent, Second Opportunity for Board Selection of Superintendent, Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at, All questions regarding the search should be directed to Jay D. Bennett, Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or. While there have been some leadership changes at Kentwood Public Schools, some things will not change. The Board of Education, and the Michigan Association of School Boards, which is assisting the search, announced today, April 20, that the Kentwood Public Schools superintendent posting closed on April 6, "with considerable interest and 31 applicants," and Board of Education has selected the six candidates for first-round interviews. The district announced Wednesday that Zoerhoff would leave June 30, 2021, at the end of . There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. Sparta    Staff - Kentwood Public Schools Staff Staff Quick Links We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Last Name: Mar. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Job Type: Superintendent: Member Organization: Kentwood Public Schools - Kent: Consultant: Jay Bennett: Status: Complete: . Lowell    The Board of Education selected as finalists: The posting for the position received 31 applicants, according to information from the Michigan Association of School Boards. Retired Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Caledonia, Michigan, United States. 24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Polstons work in West Michigan reflects his passion for the power of education and the importance of strong partnerships between school systems and the communities they serve.. Zoerhoff, however, credited district success to students, staff and parents working together for excellence, especially in community support to pass bonds and millages, which improved the facilities and increased safety. Polston, currently superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, will take the reins from Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff, who retires June 30 after eight years in the role. Date. "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. I believe that education has the power to transform lives and I am pleased to join a district with an enduring commitment to excellence and equity, Polston said in a prepared statement. His consistent drive over the years to help all students receive an education of excellence has been a guiding light for students, parents, teachers and staff members.. From home, please follow these instructions: Go to https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword. KPS Superintendent Search Input: Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Staff and Kentwood Community Members: The Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has begun the process of soliciting. In addition to the salary, the school board will also contribute $20,450 annually to a tax-deferred annuity for Polston. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. KIVA is an online schooling option designed to meet the needs of students looking for flexible schedules and access to professional educators while performing the majority of their work at home. To accommodate proper social distancing, the Board of Education asks that you RSVP if you intend to attend the interviews in person by emailing interviews@kentwoodps.org. All rights reserved (About Us). Browse reviews, directions, phone numbers and more info on Kentwood Public Schools. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff has announced that at the end of this school year he will retire after 33 years as a teacher, coach, principal and district administrator working with students all along. Rockford    I look forward to building positive relationships with staff, students, families and the community of Kentwood as we collaboratively continue the longstanding tradition of excellence.. Kentwood Public Schools announced this week that after 33 years of service in the district Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff plans to retire on June 30, 2021, at the conclusion of the 2020-21 school year. Many students at Godfrey-Lee, and across Michigan, struggle with remote learning challenges due to unreliable internet connect. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. The Board of Education selected as finalists: Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. He also was a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant principal in the district. This follows last week's . Kent City    Superintendent Kevin Polston said in a statement to News 8, "the district has high expectations for student behavior and based upon the outcomes of the investigation, will take action in. The candidates selected by the board for interviews include two Kentwood administrators and four school leaders from districts in Kalamazoo, Wyoming, Flint and Indiana, including two current superintendents. IF requested by the candidate, materials will be treated confidentially through the screening process. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. Polston brings experienced and proven leadership to Kentwood Public Schools. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff. The safety of our employees and community members remains the primary concern for Kentwood Public Schools. Gildas LaughFest hosting pop-up shop on Saturday, GVSU to celebrate Womens History Month with campus events, Leaders, visionaries, entrepreneurs explore Grand Rapids effort to become a region tech hub, Rotary Club of Grand Rapids present annual service award to Kate Pew Wolters, Grand Rapids Ballet Schools Junior Company present Wizard of Oz, Broadway Grand Rapids announces 2023-2024 season, Joanne Bailey-Boorsma, WKTV Managing Editor, Woodland Mall to offer Holiday Your Way options for shoppers, families this season. Camera offers new perspective, career goal, Loves math, wants to work in medicine with children, Students present artistic twist on being nice, New initiative aims to connect students with careers & schools with employers, District buildings promote mental health awareness, An MSU grads painful reflection: violence has turned my former green-and-white home red, https://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/, Patient parapro + purposeful play = preschool progress, Civic-minded scholars delve into study of the Constitution, Student-organized college Q&A panel earns high marks. 0 miles away. Rewarding every student's achievement in a nurturing environment is important to us. Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff has announced that at the end of this school year he will retire after 33 years as a teacher, coach, principal and district administrator working with students all along. His consistent drive over the years to help all students receive an education of excellence has been a guiding light for students, parents, teachers and staff members,' she said. Updated: 6:08 PM EDT May 25, 2022. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Zoerhoff, who announced in November he was retiring June 30, was named Kentwoods superintendent in 2013. Before coming to Godfrey-Lee, Polston was a teacher and principal at Grand Haven Area Public Schools, according to his LinkedIn profile. This will continue during the Superintendent search process. Places nearby. Although Zoerhoff will be retiring as superintendent, his two children will continue to attend Kentwood Public Schools and his family plans to remain within the Kentwood community. Kent ISD    Thornapple Kellogg    A preliminary salary range of $180,000 to $220,000 has been established. This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. Welcome to Kentwood Public Schools Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. Go tohttps://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/and click on the link at that time to watch the board meeting and interviews. There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. Gretchen Whitmer at Meadowlawn Elementary in Kentwood Public Schools on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2019. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Social distancing guidelines will be followed and there will be limited options for in-person seating. We know our children will make the world a better place! City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. This three-year contract demonstrates the commitment of the Board of Education and Mr. Polston to the long-standing tradition of excellence at Kentwood Public Schools, Madden said in a prepared statement. 2. Your Active Directory password may haveexpired and/or needs to be changed. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. To accommodate proper social distancing, the Board of Education asks that interested persons RSVP to attend the interviews in person by emailing: interviews@kentwoodps.org. Norris ken@wktv.org We are committed to excellence, equity, and diversity in education. Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). All questions regarding the search should be directed to Jay D. Bennett, Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. Mimi Madden, president of the school board, said during a November school board meeting that Zoerhoff brought stable leadership to their community and school system during the uncertain times of the coronavirus pandemic. . Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. Community members, staff and students are encouraged to watch the interviews online as they take place. We are a "no-excuse" district. Superintendent. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Grand Rapids    You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. KENTWOOD, MI - A newcomer is seeking to unseat one of three incumbent candidates who are up for reelection to the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education in the November general. Kenowa Hills    According to the announcement, interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., in Kentwood. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. Anyone who wants to attend the interviews in person is asked to RSVP by emailing interviews@kentwoodps.org. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Show Like Word Matches. K . The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. "Veronica . My personal vision of changing the world through opportunities for students is one Kentwood has carried out through the vision of Excellence and Equity in Education, he said. On behalf of our entire staff and the Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to our school community. The district website (kentwoodps.org) will have viewing instructions and more information. Our environment and comprehensive standards develop self-motivated students who upon graduation are ready to assume the role of responsible individuals in a global society. No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. Kent ISD    Grand Rapids    Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. The superintendent led Godfrey-Lee Public Schools through a tumultuous school year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. Report . Kentwood Public Schools loves to have our team connected! She will interview at 7:15 p.m. First Name: Gretchen Whitmer to chair the Student Recovery Advisory Council for the state of Michigan, which has been tasked with examining how the state can help students recover. GPS Latitude: 42.858551. Graham, who has worked at Jenison for 22 years, will replace retiring superintendent Tom TenBrink on July 1, 2021. Kentwood Public Schools taps nearby district leader Kevin Polston, of Godfrey-Lee, to be next superintendent, Michigan State University teams up with elementary school to help teachers with virtual classrooms, Thousands of Michigan students will get free WiFi hotspots and internet for remote learning. Kentwood Public Schools 5820 Eastern Ave Se, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 | (616) 455-4400 | Website QUICK STATS Student-Teacher Ratio 18:1 Number of Schools 16 Number of Students 9,228 Overview. Northview    Grit:Our students have the inner strength and intellectual capability to meet and rise above lifes challenges. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. Mr. For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. Grand Rapids Community College    Education in Kentwood is about capturing the excitement of children to learn and to inspire them to believe in the value of ALL human beings. Polston said he is eager to start building relationships within the Kentwood community.